The course aims to provide an overview of the molecular characterization, epidemiology and current treatment of breast cancer. The overall purpose is to form a bridge between pre-clinical and clinical aspects of breast cancer biology and oncology and to enable the PhD students to obtain a deeper understanding of all aspects of the breast cancer problem.

Kursens lärandemål

At the end of the course the students need to be able to show
- a thorough understanding of the basic foundations of breast cancer biology
- the ability to discuss and understand advanced concepts and problems in breast cancer biology
- to understand and be able to discuss important problems to solve in breast cancer in order to improve diagnosis, prevention of disease, treatment and quality of life.

Kursens innehåll

This course is a basic introduction to modern breast cancer research and treatment and it is recommended to all PhD students within basic, epidemiologic and clinical breast cancer research. The course will describe our current understanding of breast cancer --from molecule to patient--, eventually also discussing its management, pathology, prevention and treatment. The topics of the course include genetics, the cell cycle, apoptosis, immunology, diagnostics and treatment, and pathology. All topics will be presented from the breast cancer perspective. There will be focus on breast cancer biology and oncology, including molecular genetics, curative treatment and palliative care, psychosocial aspects of cancer, ethics and epidemiology.

Arbetsformer

The course consists of lectures, group seminars, group discussions and demonstrations.

Obligatoriska moment

All seminars and demonstrations are compulsory, also some lectures, as well as the written examination. Single missed occasions can be compensated during the course after discussion with the course director.

Examination

To pass the course the students must show that they have reached the learning outcomes of the course. This will be assessed by a written individual examination with a focus on understanding of concepts, relations and how problems are dealt within breast cancer research and treatment.

Selection will be based on 1) the relevance of the course syllabus for the applicant's doctoral project (according to written motivation), 2) date for registration as a doctoral student (priority given to earlier registration date).

Övrig information

Information about the venue of the course will be provided to the students in due time.